AFP news agency quoted US President Joe Biden as saying in a statement that those who benefited from this action are facing much longer sentences than they should have received.
Mr. Biden called the move “an important step forward toward righting historical wrongs, correcting sentencing disparities, and creating opportunities for deserving individuals to return to their families.” “.
Mr. Biden warned of the risk of America being manipulated by tycoons
According to a White House statement, the move will reduce penalties for individuals convicted based on unsubstantiated distinctions between crack and powder cocaine, as well as outdated aggravation measures. for drug crimes.
“With this action, I have issued more pardons and commutations of sentences for individuals than any president in American history,” President Biden affirmed. The US leader added that he may issue more pardons or commutations before handing over power to US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20.
US President Joe Biden spoke in Washington DC on January 17, 2025
Ms. Kara Gotsch, executive director of the Sentencing Project – a prison reform campaign, welcomed Mr. Biden’s act of clemency, saying that the move will bring “freedom to countless families.” family”.
In December 2024, Mr. Biden commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal prisoners awaiting the death penalty, converting them to life in prison without parole. That same month, he announced he would pardon 39 people convicted of nonviolent crimes and commute the sentences of nearly 1,500 others serving long prison sentences.
Mr. Biden also faced a lot of criticism for pardoning his son Hunter Biden – who pleaded guilty to tax violations and was convicted of weapons-related crimes. Presidents often issue pardons at the end of their term.
